Confused about packages

[Brian-]

Purchasing a 2021 F150 XLT Crew Cab and I'm a little confused about the trailer tow packages.
I've gone through the pinned messages but can't seem to find the answer I'm looking for.

The window sticker mentions the class IV hitch, but does not mention a tow package.
What is included in the tow package that is not included on this truck?

My travel trailer is only 5200 lbs dry, no more than 6000 loaded.
I pulled it easily with my 2019 Ranger, but it was totaled by a tree in the driveway so I figured I'd use the chance to upgrade to something slightly larger. We don't plan on getting a trailer any larger than this so I don't really need the 10,100 that the 3.73 gears would offer.

I plan on adding a Trailer Brake Controller, either something from Ford or Redarc. My ranger had the Redarc and I quite liked it, so I'm leaning towards that.

I'm just at a loss as to what else would be included with the "Trailer Tow Package" I sometimes see listed on window stickers.

Thank you!

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[Je1279]

They both include a trailer brake controller and pro trailer backup as well. Additionally, Ford does not recommend towing over 5,000lbs without one of the towing packages for reasons unknown.

 

[Brian-]

They both include a trailer brake controller and pro trailer backup as well. Additionally, Ford does not recommend towing over 5,000lbs without one of the towing packages for reasons unknown.

Awesome, thanks!
The TBC makes sense for over 5,000lbs, not sure why the pro trailer backup matters haha

Sounds like I'll be good to go once I get the TBC in

 

[Je1279]

Here is a link to the 2022 specs if it helps.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&sou...wQFnoECDIQAQ&usg=AOvVaw0ofUVEXv35UoptGbnxqbrb

 

[Tall Tail]

The Class IV hitch will be rated for 5000 lbs (WC) no mater what package you get and 10-14k (WD) depending on which package you get. Ref the link below.
https://www.f150gen14.com/forum/threads/upgrading-the-hitch-worth-it.14240/

My guess is the package offers different suspension based on the ride quality vs tow rating that you want. There could also be differences in engine options. I believe they have different payloads as well. Ref link for specs below.
https://www.f150gen14.com/forum/threads/2021-f-150-technical-specifications.139/

Other than tow weight and TC, What are your needs with the tow package?

google "build F150" and go through the build process. click on the little "i" next to the package.
https://shop.ford.com/configure/f150/chooseyourpath/

 

[Brian-]

The Class IV hitch will be rated for 5000 lbs (WC) no mater what package you get and 10-14k (WD) depending on which package you get. Ref the link below.
https://www.f150gen14.com/forum/threads/upgrading-the-hitch-worth-it.14240/

My guess is the package offers different suspension based on the ride quality vs tow rating that you want. There could also be differences in engine options. I believe they have different payloads as well. Ref link for specs below.
https://www.f150gen14.com/forum/threads/2021-f-150-technical-specifications.139/

Other than tow weight and TC, What are your needs with the tow package?

google "build F150" and go through the build process. click on the little "i" next to the package.
https://shop.ford.com/configure/f150/chooseyourpath/

I do have a WD hitch as well.
My truck has a 7 pin and Class IV. Im not sure about the Tailgate LED, but I do believe it has that as well.

other than that the only items missing from the Tow package are the trailer brake controller and pro backup.
I’m not sure if the Smart trailer connector is included with the 7 pin to make BLIS work with the trailer.
When I had my ranger and installed the TBC, there was a second module that I had to tie into the upper center rear light to allow BLIS to continue working. Or maybe that was the sensor for the adaptive cruise control, it’s been awhile since I had to worry about it.

I see no mention of any changes to suspension like leaf springs, etc.

 

[Bryan Simon]

If buying a vehicle off the lot.
mid level XLT includes the hitch.
I had the dealer install the trailer brake.

pretty sure the ford guys hold to the 500/5000 limits on vehicles without trailer brakes to keep their own hiney’s covered.

just adding the trailer brakes will ‘unofficially’ increase towing capacity because of the ability to get stopped.

I ordered a lightly optioned 301a, but because I had no desire or need for 3.73 gearing, did not opt for any towing package.
Pretty confident this truck can drag anything I need it to.

 

[las567]

I went through this with the dealer. The two tow packages will include larger transmission cooler and with the max package different rear shocks and bumper set up.

 

[Brian-]

I went through this with the dealer. The two tow packages will include larger transmission cooler and with the max package different rear shocks and bumper set up.

interesting, from what I gathered reading through the material here on the forums the transmission cooler was the same outside of the max tow package.
The regular tow package also includes an upgraded transmission cooler?

 

[las567]

Thats what I was told. If you go onto the Ford site and ask customer service, through chat, they have been very helpful. For example the 2023 Platinum I purchased, not BAP, showed dual exhaust, build pictures, when you purchase the 3.5 ecoboost. It didn't sound right. Chat confirmed that it's a single tip exhaust. Of the two dealers I spoke with, neither knew the answer. Not sure why on the build sheet they don't specifically explain what is included with the tow packages.

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